Miantenoma Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Miantenoma is a privately owned irrigation dam located in the Weld County of Colorado, specifically in the city of Gilcrest.


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Summary

Built in 1895, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans a length of 570 feet. With a storage capacity of 219 acre-feet, Miantenoma serves the primary purpose of irrigation, drawing water from the Howlett Gulch river or stream.

Despite being regulated by the Colorado Department of Water Resources and inspected regularly, Miantenoma has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in August 2015. The dam has a moderate risk rating of 3, suggesting the presence of some potential risks that may require management measures in the future. With a spillway width of 10 feet and a maximum discharge rate of 250 cubic feet per second, Miantenoma is equipped to handle controlled releases of water to prevent overflow during heavy rainfall or flooding events.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Miantenoma presents an interesting case study of a historic irrigation dam that continues to play a crucial role in the water management practices of the region. Its location in the picturesque surroundings of Weld County, Colorado adds to its appeal as a point of interest for those interested in the intersection of water infrastructure and environmental conservation. As efforts to address climate change and water scarcity intensify, understanding the management and maintenance of structures like Miantenoma will be key in ensuring the sustainable use of water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1895

Dam Length

570

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

HOWLETT GULCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

219

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

22
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.